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Six Month Anniversary of 9-11 Brings A Host of Unexpected Emotions
WASHINGTON—Today marks the six-month anniversary
of the tragedies of September 11. Remembering these tragic events may bring a
host of unexpected emotions to both the general public and those most intimately
affected by the horrors of that day, say the nation’s social workers.
According to Madelyn Miller, ACSW, Chairperson of the Disaster Trauma Working
Group at the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) New York City
Chapter, "Previous losses and traumas are often times remembered and
re-experienced on anniversary dates, sometimes with little preparation."
Across the country a range of complex emotional reactions can be expected and
understood as normal responses to the trauma and loss associated with September
11. Many people may feel overwhelmed, revisiting their earlier experiences of
trauma; for example, some may jump at the sound of siren, or duck at a low
flying plane. Some may feel anxious or despairing, while others may show no
reactions at all.
Miller says it is important to normalize such a broad spectrum of reactions
to trauma and traumatic loss, and to expect the inevitable complex, uneven, and
long duration of individual and collective community reactions after the impact
of mass violence, such as that on September 11.
"At this time, it is most important to stay engaged with others and to use
support networks, whether among family, friends or colleagues, or in the
community," Miller adds. "It can be important, too, to reach out to others in
need of social connections and emotional supports. Those who decide to find
professional support for their concerns may approach social workers or other
mental health professionals."
To find a social worker in your area, please go to www.socialworkers.org and search the
NASW Clinical Register.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in
Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social
workers with 153,000 members. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of
social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of
individuals, families and communities through its work and through its
advocacy.
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